Cloud Control The horizon across Bandra Reclamation darkens under overcast skies A revolution continues A moment from a behind-the-scenes footage of the documentary. Pics Courtesy/Begumpura productions It was appropriate to announce it today,” shared filmmaker Somnath Waghmare (right). The documentary filmmaker and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) scholar will begin work on his next project, Blue Revolution. Announced on the birth anniversary of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, the film is Waghmare’s first project that explores the scope of the Ambedkarite Revolution beyond Maharashtra. “I have been documenting the conversations across my journeys across India for the last three years — from Babasaheb’s presence at the 2026 Kochi Biennale to villages in Mangaon, the cities of London, and conversations at TISS,” the filmmaker told us. Waiting for flamingos (From left) Illustrated panels of the first arrival of flamingos this season; types of flamingos in Mumbai. Pics Courtesy/@shaipen.art April is almost past us, and the slow arrival of our city’s annual visitors — the flamingos — is beginning to draw attention. Back in January, this newspaper (Late but flamingo; January 10) stated how the delayed arrival of the pink visitors was a cause for concern. However, with the season’s first spotting, illustrator Priti Thale put her art to remind us of what is at stake. Priti Thale “Having lived in Kurul, Alibaug, I have always been drawn to the mangroves and wetlands. Naturally, I was concerned to read about reports citing that the numbers have been low. So, I decided to create illustrations that highlight it for readers. Even in Alibaug, I have observed that the numbers of the shorebirds has been reducing. It is nothing like the peak of lockdown,” shared Thale. Benegal readies for an EP-ic Uday Benegal performs with Indus Creed as the opening act for Def Leppard in March. Pic/Sachin Kalbag It has been a busy 2026 for Uday Benegal. After the rapturous opening for Def Leppard with his fellow crewmates in March, the Goa-based rocker has been quietly preparing for a new project. As we learn, Benegal will release his first solo EP, Human Be, later this year. “The EP has been evolving over the last year. I have been travelling to Mumbai frequently for recording sessions,” he revealed. What pushed him into the EP zone? A new burst of creativity, admitted the vocalist. “I have been through a dry spell of almost seven years. But early last year, the ideas began to take shape,” he shared. With singer-songwriter Aria Nanji taking on the reins as producer and collaborator, Benegal’s new project will also feature the talents of Sharad Rao and Zion Mathew. “Our first single will come out tomorrow (April 16). It is a wonderful composition, and is definitely worth the wait,” he concluded. Karma is an autowallah A view of Habib Shaikh’s auto HIS failing water bottle business miraculously turned around one day, during his usual rounds. Habib Shaikh (right) decided to help an abandoned boy near Lokhandwala. The next day, he observed that his water bottles had sold out in less than an hour. The karma from this one good deed made him want to help more people using the aid of Mumbai’s much-loved autorickshaw. A stockpile of snacks inside the auto. Pics Courtesy/@habibshaikh_official Visuals of his neon-lit auto, stocked with free snacks and beverages has taken the Internet by storm. A chat with Shaikh revealed that his generosity also extends towards stray animals who he regularly feeds and helps rehabilitate with the help of one of his regulars. Shaikh’s unwavering kindness might just make Mumbaikar’s slow down and take a look.
15 April,2026 07:44 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayA brief power outage at the Padgha electricity substation on Tuesday evening disrupted operations at the Pise and Panjrapur water purification plants, leading to a temporary suspension of water supply across parts of the city. According to officials, the power supply was cut between 5:45 pm and 6:15 pm, affecting the functioning of both plants. As a result, the water supply under Mumbai Phase 1 and Phase 2 from these facilities was halted. Civic authorities said that until the Master Balancing Reservoir (MBR) levels return to normal, a 20 to 25 per cent cut in water supply is being implemented until 9 pm. Supply is expected to normalise thereafter. However, the impact of the disruption appears to have extended into Wednesday morning, with residents in Girgaon reporting no water supply at their usual time. The area typically receives water between 4:30 am and 4:45 am, but taps remained dry, causing inconvenience to households. Residents expressed concern over the delay, especially during peak morning hours, as many depend on the early supply for daily chores. Authorities are likely to restore normal supply once reservoir levels stabilise, though some areas may continue to experience delays in the interim. Khar Danda Koliwada residents battle daily water crisis amid rising temperatures As the temperatures spike, the residents of Mumbai's Khar Danda Koliwada are reeling under a severe water crisis that has disrupted daily life and raised serious concerns about basic civic infrastructure. What was once an intermittent issue has now become a persistent problem for locals. Residents across the locality identify water scarcity as their most urgent concern. While some infrastructure upgrades, including pipeline improvements, are underway, many remain sceptical about whether these efforts will ensure a stable and reliable supply. Low pressure identified as key issue Local civic representatives have acknowledged the gravity of the crisis. According to BMC corporator Chintamani Nivate, low water pressure is a primary factor affecting supply in areas such as Gazdhar Bandh and Khar Danda. “Even if water is supplied for a few hours, insufficient pressure prevents it from reaching several households,” he said, adding that similar issues are being reported across Mumbai. Water crisis emerges as top civic concern While issues such as cleanliness and infrastructure persist, water scarcity has emerged as the defining civic challenge in the area. Residents are increasingly demanding a consistent supply, better pressure management, and stronger accountability from authorities. With expectations mounting, local representatives have assured that focused efforts will be made to address the crisis.
15 April,2026 07:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA civic push to improve transparency in road concreting works through QR codes has seen patchy implementation across Mumbai, with several sites lacking the mandatory display or showing damaged and unreadable codes. Spot checks by mid-day across multiple locations found inconsistencies, raising questions about monitoring and enforcement, even as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) maintains that no major lapses exist. Ground check: Key locations No QR codes across the entire stretch on Narayan Joshi, Cross Road No. 1, Kandivli West Tukaram Bhilaji Kadam Marg, Byculla East, A strech near the Shobha restaurant in Byculla’s lacks QR codes (right) Multiple QR codes are bunched on one board Project detailsContractor: M/s NCC LimitedLength: 700 metresStart: October 24, 2025Completion: May 31, 2026 Progress: 49% Narayan Joshi, Cross Road No. 1, Kandivli West No QR codes were seen on the entire stretch (right) Torn, outdated and misplaced banners visible in Kandivli. Pics/Satej Shinde Project detailsContractor: BSCPL InfraLength: 212 metresStart: October 1, 2025Completion: May 31, 2026Progress: 90% MSEB Colony, 1st Road, Santacruz West No QR codes in Santacruz. Pic/Madhulika Ram Kavattur Work ongoing since December 2025No QR codes observed by residentsBanner visibility inconsistent Kachpada Extension and Mamledarwadi Extension Road, Malad West No QR at start or end (right) Damaged banners. Pics/Satej Shinde Project detailsContractor: RPS InfraLength: 700 metresStatus: Additional stretch, work has just started Completion: May 31, 2027 QRs installed after mid-day flagged the issue. Pic/Sarthak Mehta What residents say An anonymous shopkeeper‘I haven’t seen any such QR codes. I was unaware that this concept even existed’ Krishnakant Modi, Kandivli West‘I haven’t seen any QR code to date… work is progressing at a slow pace’ A resident, Santacruz‘We would appreciate sticking QR codes on materials that are not easily damaged’ Citizen voices Dhaval Shah, AndheriCurrently, most of the work is already completed, but even when the work was on QR codes were not visible enough, even when work was ongoingNikhil Desai, Matunga:The codes disappeared within a week due to a lack of enforcement and accountability. We struggled to find the right point of contact when the roadwork was on in the area BMC’s response Chief engineer Mantayya M Swami said he “will check” but did not respond further BMC spokesperson said Officials conduct regular and surprise inspections“No such lapses” observedAdditional project details available on the BMC portal A BMC official added QR codes were installed, but may have been torn or misplacedWill check and reinstall them At a glance Initiative: QR codes on roadwork sites for public informationAuthority: The BMC’s roadworks departmentGround reality: Missing, damaged or poorly displayed QR codesOfficial stance: “No such lapses noted” What the QR code rule says >> Contractors must display project details via QR codes>> Meant to replace or supplement physical banners Covers >> Project scope>> Contractor details>> Timeline and contact info Larger concerns Lack of visibility and awareness among citizensQR codes disappearing mid-projectNo clear accountability for maintenance
15 April,2026 07:14 AM IST | Mumbai | Sarthak Mehta | Madhulika Ram KavatturIn an unprecedented occurrence for cricket on these shores, the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack, the world’s most prestigious cricket annual that some still like to call the bible of cricket, has selected four Indian cricketers to be among their five cricketers of the year. India Test captain Shubman Gill, seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, and pacer Mohammed Siraj make it in the famous yellow-jacketed annual. Nottinghamshire captain Haseeb Hameed, the England opener who came on the 2016-17 tour to India, is the fifth Cricketer of the Year. Indian honours don’t end with the Cricketers of the Year section. Gill claims the Wisden Trophy for his performance against England in last year’s Edgbaston Test, where he scored 269 and 161 to play a lead role in India’s massive 336-run win. India women’s player Deepti Sharma was picked as one of the Leading Cricketers in the World. Wisden editor Lawrence Booth on the Indian stars... Shubman Gill’s run-making dominated the Anderson–Tendulkar Test series, his tally of 754 the most in a series for India against England. That included a remarkable double of 269 and 161 at Edgbaston, in between hundreds at Headingley and Old Trafford. Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial role in India’s fightback in England, topping their averages with 516 runs at 86. His six scores of 50 or more included a match-saving century in Manchester. Rishabh Pant’s helter-skelter excellence was one of the summer’s highlights, not least at Headingley, where he made 134 and 118. He added three half-centuries — the last after breaking his foot. Mohammed Siraj took more wickets — 23-in the England-India Test series, securing a 2-2 draw with a last-ditch five-for at The Oval, including three of England’s final four wickets on a dramatic final morning. Deepti Sharma helped inspire India to World Cup glory on home soil, scoring 215 runs at 30 and taking 22 wickets at 20 with her off-spin — an unprecedented double at a World Cup by a man or woman. The final against South Africa was a distillation of her talents: five wickets, a half-century and a run-out. Aussie domination in Wisden >> Australia have had five cricketers in one edition and four cricketers twice.>> L Hassett, W Johnston, R Lindwall, A Morris, and D Tallon featured in the 1949 edition.>> In 1973, Wisden picked Greg Chappell, Dennis Lillee, Bob Massie, and Keith Stackpole>> In 1994, they selected David Boon, Ian Healy, Shane Warne, and Merv Hughes Legends speak Former India all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath, a Wisden honouree in 1984, welcomed the achievement:‘I am very happy. It shows we are dominating world cricket across formats. The contribution of the four has been huge; their performances speak for themselves. I am happy for all four, but Jadeja in particular. He has contributed immensely to India’s major victories and has often remained unsung. It [his 1984 selection] carried special significance at a time when Indian cricket was not held in the same regard globally.’ Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar, who was among Wisden’s Five in 1987, said the honours reflected India’s strong showing in England:‘The India-England series in 2025 was keenly contested. India played outstanding cricket, which is why Gill, Jadeja, Pant and Siraj have been recognised. Siraj bowled his heart out, especially on the final day at The Oval. Test cricket is the ultimate format. Players are judged by their performances in Tests. Obviously, I felt happy because it (his 1987 honour) was a form of recognition for my performance. We dominated that 1986 England side and that is always special’ Kapil Dev, who featured in Wisden’s Five in 1983, called it a proud moment:‘This is excellent news — four Indian cricketers in one edition. This is India’s time. The way we are playing across the world, it’s a great honour. I do not remember what I did [after winning a feature in Wisden’s Five in 1983]. I have moved on. But four cricketers [in one year], I’m very happy. This is prestigious for all Indians’ Former India women’s captain Diana Edulji said Deepti Sharma’s recognition reaffirmed her status as a leading all-rounder:‘This is a great honour coming from Wisden. It vindicates that we deserved to win the World Cup. More Indians getting into Wisden will be better for our youngsters, who will look to emulate these achievers. They can be looked up to as role models’ 1933Year the first Indian Test cricketer – CK Nayudu – was picked among Wisden’s Five
15 April,2026 07:06 AM IST | Mumbai | Clayton Murzello | Debasish DattaDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for April 15. Aries March 21 – April 20Some consumer durables are bought in this karmic cycle. There’s complete transformation for the positive in an ongoing situation. Cosmic tip: The grass is always greener elsewhere. TaurusApril 21 – May 20The home is a comfortable place to be in, no matter how humble it is. Keep a decision on hold till further news.Cosmic tip: Be aware of principles, the sense of right from wrong. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Though someone is trying to undermine you or your work, but they won’t be successful. Ignore the person. Cosmic tip: Follow advice you’ve given others in the past. Cancer June 22 – July 23There’s slight delay at the beginning of the day, which then clears up by mid-day. A happy discovery keeps you motivated to look for another unusual bargain.Cosmic tip: Count your blessings. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Small things disappearing from the home is troubling. Make sure everything valuable is under lock and key. You begin making travel plans.Cosmic tip: Value this abiding love and emotional closeness. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Awareness helps avoid an accident either at home or while out. Handle machinery cautiously. A business meeting ends on an auspicious note.Cosmic tip: Pay off karmic debts to the best of your ability. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Concentrating on keeping your home stable and happy leads the agenda. Travel is revealed. Cosmic tip: Ask yourself if you are really interested in knowing the facts. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Striving to achieve goals set six months ago is possible soon now. Just keep the focus and intention clear. There’s a sense of achievement.Cosmic tip: Be careful with money. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22This karmic cycle supports self-employment, entrepreneurial ventures and other business activities undertaken. Eat balanced meals.Cosmic tip: Control your temper Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Just dealing with the day and all the works it brings up is the best way to deal with a slightly slow karmic cycle that also irritates at some level.Cosmic tip: Look after general health. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Intuition and under the surface perception of what is actually going on behind karmic vibes brings to mind several answers.Cosmic tip: Handle personal relationships with finesse and good humour. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Today is good day for seeking a favour/ having an important talk that affects work/ business. Cosmic tip: First think, then act or speak as this is a day of luck as well as being careful.
15 April,2026 03:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseActivist Anjali Damania on Tuesday alleged links between a senior police officer and self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, currently under investigation in multiple criminal cases, including sexual assault and cheating. The claims come amid an ongoing probe by state authorities and parallel investigations into alleged financial irregularities. Activist seeks vigilance probe against senior police officer Damania alleged that Nashik Range Inspector General of Police Dattatray Karale had attended a public programme where Kharat was present and even addressed the gathering. Questioning the officer’s presence at such an event, she demanded a departmental vigilance inquiry. She also claimed that call records indicated multiple contacts linked to the accused. श्री दत्ता कराळे हे एक IG लेवल चे पोलिस अधिकारी असतांना खारतांसारख्या बाबांच्या कार्यक्रमात का गेले ? तेथे भाषण देखील दिले? हे जेव्हा सामान्य जनता ऐकते तेव्हा खारतांवर विश्वास का नाही बसणार ? त्यांची देखील चौकशी departmental vigilance कडून झाली पाहिजे त्यांचे देखील थोडे थोडके… pic.twitter.com/FWq0dHHpdT — Mrs Anjali Damania (@anjali_damania) April 13, 2026 Damania urged Director General of Police Sadanand Date to seek clarification on the matter. There was no immediate response from Karale despite attempts to contact him. ED probe underway into financial transactions Kharat, who is currently in police custody, is facing several cases, including allegations of sexual assault and cheating. The Enforcement Directorate is also probing a suspected money laundering angle and has conducted searches at locations linked to the accused. Authorities are examining financial transactions and related entities as part of the broader investigation. Congress MP raises ‘encounter’ concern Separately, Congress MP Praniti Shinde stirred controversy by suggesting the possibility of an “encounter” killing of the accused. She claimed that as the investigation progresses, names of individuals linked to the ruling establishment in Maharashtra could emerge. Shinde also questioned the government’s stance on women’s safety in light of the case. BJP urges restraint, asks leaders to aid probe Reacting to the developments, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule called for restraint, urging political leaders to avoid making speculative statements. He said that individuals with information related to the case should cooperate with the Special Investigation Team rather than making public claims. Bawankule stressed the need for responsible conduct, especially in sensitive matters under investigation. Fresh claims over financial links and accounts In a separate statement, Damania also raised questions about alleged financial links involving Pratibha Chakankar, sister of former Maharashtra State Women’s Commission chairperson Rupali Chakankar. She disputed claims regarding alleged fake accounts, citing call data records and communication exchanges over an extended period. Damania questioned how such interactions could be dismissed as fabricated. Police officials confirmed that Pratibha Chakankar was questioned in connection with alleged use of her bank account by Kharat. Authorities are examining accounts held in her name and that of her son in a cooperative credit society as part of the probe. Investigation continues amid political controversy The case has triggered a political storm in Maharashtra, with allegations, counter-allegations, and demands for accountability intensifying.
14 April,2026 09:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a unique protest, three cab drivers walked nearly 150 kilometres from Pune to Mumbai to highlight the plight of app-based cab drivers and their grievances. Affiliated with the Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, the trio said they were upset with the “injustice” meted out to them by app-based taxi companies. Starting from Pune on April 10, the three walked to Mumbai with four halts and reached the city border on Wednesday morning. The drivers, identified as Parmeshwar Ghonge, Santosh Durge, and Vaibhav Bhegde, all in their 40s, crossed Andheri and reached near the international airport in the evening. They are scheduled to reach Mumbai's Azad Maidan on Thursday to submit a petition to the authorities. What is the protest about? The protest has been undertaken to draw the administration’s attention to the claim that app-based companies are operating illegally across the state, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among drivers. Arbitrary rates: Drivers alleged that app-based companies are displaying arbitrary fares, ignoring Transport Department orders, and continuing bike-taxi services in cities like Mumbai and Nagpur despite FIRs and lack of valid licences, causing discontent among drivers and passengers. Fees from drivers: They also raised concerns over repeated deductions from drivers under the guise of “panic button” charges, lack of transparency in commissions, and non-compliance with government-approved rates. Government-notified rates: In Maharashtra (Mumbai Metropolitan Region), app-based cabs such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido are required to follow government-notified fare structures aimed at balancing passenger affordability and driver earnings. However, companies have reportedly been ignoring these norms, citing surge pricing and other factors. Trade union support Dr Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, president of Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha, said the march has been called a “padayatra for justice.” He said the protest aims to highlight the injustice faced by cab drivers and the arbitrary practices of app-based companies. “These cab drivers will reach Azad Maidan in Mumbai on April 15 at 4 pm, after which they will meet transport officials and submit their representation,” he said. Officials’ response A transport official said, “We have repeatedly asked companies to follow government rates on their applications. Companies are blaming each other for not complying with orders. We are continuously following up on the issue.” Voices from the protest Santosh Durge, cab driver from Pune, says, “Our legs ached, and the sun drained us out. But the fight must go on. Government rates are not reflected in the apps, leading to conflicts between drivers and commuters. App companies are not following norms, and we are bearing the brunt. Bike taxis are also operating illegally and have dented our business.” Parmeshwar Ghonge, a cab driver from Pune, says, “We fell ill on the way and faced several medical issues, but our determination kept us going. We received timely medical support. We plan to submit our petition to the transport minister and the chief minister. It is unfair that despite government notifications, rules are not being followed.” Vaibhav Bhegde, cab driver from Pune, says, “We suffered blisters and injuries due to the long walk, but our determination remained strong. We represent the app-based cab community, and this protest is to draw government attention. Many drivers and supporters joined us along the way.” Route and details Route taken: Pune RTO, Talegaon, Khopoli, Panvel, Kamothe, Sanpada, Vashi, Andheri, Airport, Azad MaidanTotal distance: 150 km
14 April,2026 08:46 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarFormer Maharashtra State Women's Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar on Tuesday broke her silence over allegations linked to a self-styled godman, strongly denying any wrongdoing and alleging a “deliberate and fabricated” campaign to defame her and her family, reported IANS. The controversy centres around an anonymous letter currently under investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which purportedly links Chakankar to accused godman Ashok Kharat. Questions raised over anonymous letter leak Chakankar questioned how the unsigned and unverified letter reached media organisations before being officially examined by authorities. She alleged that the document was deliberately circulated to trigger widespread debate and damage her reputation, reported IANS. According to her, such actions point to a coordinated attempt to malign her image. She demanded that those responsible for leaking the letter be identified and held accountable. Calls for probe into origin of document The NCP leader urged authorities to conduct a thorough inquiry to trace the source and authorship of what she described as a “mischievous” document, reported IANS. She also cited remarks made by Beed Superintendent of Police Navneet Kanwat, who reportedly stated that anonymous complaints without identifiable details hold no legal validity. Despite this, Chakankar insisted that the issue warranted investigation, particularly to establish how such a document entered the public domain, reported IANS. Denies any link to alleged wrongdoing Addressing the allegations directly, Chakankar categorically denied any involvement in financial irregularities, land dealings, or any criminal activity connected to the case, reported IANS. She said neither she nor her family had any association with misconduct of any kind and described the accusations as baseless and speculative. Chakankar further expressed concern over what she termed a “dangerous trend” of public shaming based on unverified claims, rumours, and narratives lacking evidence, reported IANS. Silence aimed at ensuring fair investigation Explaining her absence from public commentary over the past few weeks, Chakankar said her silence was intentional to allow investigative agencies to carry out their work without external pressure, reported IANS. She stated that she wanted to avoid influencing the probe or contributing to what she described as “one-sided narratives” in the media. Expresses faith in judicial process Concluding her statement, Chakankar expressed confidence in the legal system, asserting that the truth would eventually come to light, reported IANS. She maintained that facts and evidence would ultimately prevail over speculation, reiterating her trust in the ongoing investigation and judicial process. (With inputs from IANS)
14 April,2026 08:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai Port Authority on Tuesday paid tribute to the bravehearts of the Bombay Dock Explosion at the Fire Memorial within the port premises, marking the National Fire Service Day. Ceremony attended by key agencies The ceremony was led by Deputy Chairperson Adesh Titarmare. Senior officials and representatives from multiple agencies, including Maharashtra Fire Services, Mumbai Fire Brigade, and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), along with other industrial and defence fire units were also present during the event. Remembering the 1944 tragedy The observance commemorates the explosion of the SS Fort Stikine at Victoria Dock on April 14, 1944, one of the deadliest industrial disasters in the city’s history, which resulted in extensive loss of life and property. Firefighters, port personnel, and civilians were among those killed, while large parts of the port and surrounding areas were severely damaged. Floral tributes honour bravery Floral tributes were offered by dignitaries from port authorities, fire services, defence establishments, and industrial safety units, honouring the courage and sacrifice of those who responded to the incident under extreme conditions. The Mumbai Port Authority reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening fire safety systems, emergency preparedness, and coordinated response mechanisms across its operations. Officials said the annual observance serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in high-risk environments. Plans to upgrade memorial Looking ahead, the authority plans to upgrade and develop the Fire Memorial to preserve the legacy of those who lost their lives. The project will be undertaken by Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited, aiming to create a more comprehensive tribute while promoting awareness about fire safety and emergency response among stakeholders and visitors.
14 April,2026 08:01 PM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentShiv Sena chief leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing strong support for the proposed amendments to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, describing the move as a “historic step” towards strengthening women’s representation in governance. Historic Reform to Boost Women’s Participation In his letter, Shinde congratulated the Prime Minister for introducing the proposed amendments during the special session of Parliament scheduled on April 16, 2026. He said the reform would pave the way for the effective implementation of women’s reservation in legislatures and the Lok Sabha, calling it a “golden chapter” in India’s democratic journey. Shinde emphasized that the initiative goes beyond legislative reform, describing it as a transformative step to ensure women’s decisive participation in governance and nation-building. He noted that the move reflects the Centre’s commitment to justice, equality, and women’s empowerment. Praise for Centre’s Women-Centric Initiatives The Shiv Sena leader highlighted several flagship schemes and legislative measures introduced under Modi’s leadership aimed at improving the socio-economic status of women. These include the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, Mission Shakti, and Poshan Abhiyaan. According to Shinde, these initiatives have enhanced dignity, financial inclusion, and security for women across the country. Broader Governance Achievements Highlighted Apart from women-centric policies, Shinde also referred to major national decisions such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, stating that these steps have strengthened national integration and enhanced India’s global standing. He said the Prime Minister’s leadership has provided stability and direction in an increasingly uncertain global environment, adding that the government’s focus on national security and development has earned widespread public confidence. Maharashtra’s Women Welfare Initiatives Drawing parallels with state-level efforts, Shinde said the Maharashtra government has implemented several schemes inspired by the Centre’s vision. He cited initiatives such as the Chief Minister Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, which provides direct financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections, along with a 50 per cent fare concession for women in state transport buses. He also mentioned free higher education for girls and financial support of up to Rs 1.01 lakh under the Lek Ladki Yojana. Additional programmes like Lakhpati Didi and the Annapurna Yojana, which offers three free gas cylinders annually, were highlighted as efforts to promote self-reliance among women. Personal Note and Political Backing In his letter, Shinde conveyed greetings on behalf of the people of Maharashtra, particularly women across the state, while appreciating the Prime Minister’s leadership. Positioning Shiv Sena as a key constituent of the National Democratic Alliance, he reiterated the party’s full support for the proposed amendments. He said the reform aligns with the broader vision of building a strong, inclusive, and developed India. Shinde concluded by congratulating the Prime Minister for his continued efforts in nation-building and reaffirmed Shiv Sena’s commitment to supporting transformative reforms at the national level.
14 April,2026 07:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Congress on Tuesday strongly criticised the BJP-led Mahayuti government in Maharashtra following the deaths of two students due to suspected drug overdose, calling the administration “inept and shameless” and accusing it of failing to curb the growing drug problem among youth. The remarks were made by Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal, who alleged that the state’s governance failures have allowed drug abuse to spread unchecked. Two students die after suspected overdose at Goregaon event According to the police, the incident occurred on Sunday after a music concert held in Goregaon, Mumbai. The deceased were students of a city-based management institute and were part of a group of around 15 individuals. Preliminary information suggests that the group had consumed ecstasy before entering the venue and also consumed alcohol during the event. The deaths have raised concerns over the availability and use of narcotic substances at large public gatherings. Congress questions law enforcement and event oversight Sapkal questioned how such a large gathering, where drugs and alcohol were allegedly consumed openly, went undetected by authorities. He said the incident pointed to a major lapse by the Mumbai Police and the state’s Home Department, adding that it reflected poorly on the administrative machinery responsible for maintaining law and order. The Congress leader also demanded clarity on permissions granted for the event at the NESCO complex in Goregaon, raising concerns about regulatory oversight. Allegations of political patronage and weak enforcement In his statement, Sapkal alleged that the drug trade is flourishing across Maharashtra with the “blessings of those in power.” He cited past cases in cities such as Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Solapur to support his claims. He further alleged that investigations in drug-related cases were often diluted and that accused individuals were given undue relief, suggesting possible political interference. Fadnavis targeted over Home portfolio Sapkal also targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who currently holds the Home portfolio, accusing him of failing to control the situation. “If he cannot handle the Home Department, he is unfit to run the state,” Sapkal said, demanding accountability from the government over the incident. Opposition calls for probe into incident Meanwhile, Supriya Sule termed the incident “extremely worrisome” and called for a thorough police inquiry. She urged the Home Department to take immediate action and ensure that those responsible are held accountable, while also stressing the need for stronger measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Rising concern over drug use among youth The incident has sparked a broader political debate over rising drug use among young people in Maharashtra, with opposition parties accusing the government of failing to take adequate preventive and enforcement measures.
14 April,2026 06:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
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